What is a Charter School?
A charter school is a public school managed by a non-profit Board of Directors. All charter schools are designed to allow more flexibility than standard public schools, although we are held accountable for academic achievement and prudent management by the School Board and the State Department of Education. For a more detailed answer to that question, click here.
Why does Lutz Prep require all potential families to attend a parent information meeting?
Charter schools are bound by state law, their county policy and procedures, and their own charter document. Our charter specifically requires attendance at a parent meeting so each parent clearly understands what they are agreeing to as parents at Lutz Prep. This is common amongst charter schools, but charter schools do vary based on their charter document.
If my child’s class is full for the upcoming academic year, what can I do to put my child on the waiting list?
While we still require families to attend a parent information meeting and view the Powerpoint presentation, we now have made our registration form available online.
I live outside of Hillsborough county. Can my child still attend Lutz Prep?
Yes. Out-of-county residents must fill out some extra paperwork so that their child can be transferred into Hillsborough. For more information, click here.
What is the student/teacher ratio?
Under Florida’s class size amendment, kindergarten through first grade classes must have no more than 18 students. Fourth and fifth grade are permitted 22 students each.
What does it cost?
Lutz Prep is a Hillsborough County public school open to all students. There is no cost.
What about parent involvement?
Starting in 2012, every family will be required to contribute 25 hours over the course of the academic year. These hours can be completed in any number of ways, as determined by the principal, the PTA, and other school sources. Each family will receive information about these opportunities as they arise. These volunteer requirements are per family, not per student.
How will parent volunteer hours be tracked?
Volunteer hours will be tracked by the director of parent services. For more information, please contact us.
Are the teachers certified?
All teachers must be certified in the State of Florida and are vetted by the Hillsborough County School District Human Resources office.
When is the first day of school? What is the school calendar?
Lutz Prep follows the Hillsborough County School District academic calendar. To view the calendar, click here. Lutz Prep’s specific calendar is here. Keep in mind that the Hillsborough County School Board may not have yet voted on and approved the calendar for the upcoming school year.
Do students wear uniforms?
Yes, students are required to wear uniforms. More information can be found here.
What are school hours?
Starting in 2012, school hours are from 8 am to 3 pm, however, both before care and after care will be offered.
What is the Lutz Prep curriculum?
Lutz Prep prides itself on individualizing the curriculum for each child’s needs. We follow Florida’s Next Generation Sunshine State Standards. For more information, you can contact us.
If my child is selected do I have to reapply each year?
No, once a student is enrolled at Lutz Prep they are readmitted each year.
What if my child’s birthday misses the cutoff for kindergarten (September 1st), by only a few days? What if he is already on a kindergarten reading level? Will any consideration be taken for this?
Lutz Prep is required by law to follow the September 1st date for kindergarten with no variation. If a child is coming to us from a private school setting we can accept the information given by a parent and place the child in the appropriate first grade through fifth grade classroom. Our individualized curriculum is designed to fit all students including those who are advanced for their grade.